Chenab Bridge is a rail bridge, located between Bakkal and Kauri in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), India. The 1,315m-long bridge is being built at a height of 359m. It is the tallest rail bridge in the world.
Design Details
Chenab Bridge forms a massive steel arch, the first of its kind in India. The country has no codes or design guidance for such massive structures. Based on experiences drawn from similar projects worldwide, the design practices for the bridge are being followed.
BS: 5400 is being used as the basic guideline for the design and construction of the bridge. The deep Chenab river valley under the bridge is prone to high wind pressure risking the stability of the bridge.
Norway-based Force Technology Laboratory conducted several wind tunnel tests to understand the effects of wind speed, static force coefficients and gust buffeting. The bridge is designed to resist wind speeds of up to 260kmph. The seismic nature of the project zone was also considered during its design.
The bridge will include 17 spans, as well as the 469m main arch span across the Chenab River, and viaducts on either side. The main span of the bridge will include two 36m-long approach spans. It will be built as a two ribbed arch with steel trusses made of concrete-filled sealed steel boxes. The structure will be supported by two 130m-long, 100m-high pylons on either end through cables.
Steel was chosen to construct the bridge as it will be more economical and able to resist temperatures of -20C and wind speeds of above 200kmph. The Jammu and Kashmir region witnesses frequent terrorist attacks. To enhance safety and security, the bridge will be made of 63mm-thick special blast-proof steel. The concrete pillars of the bridge are designed to withstand explosions.
A ring of aerial security will be provided to safeguard the bridge. An online monitoring and warning system will be installed on the bridge to protect the passengers and train in critical conditions. Footpaths and cycle trails will be provided adjacent to it. The bridge will be painted with a special corrosion-resistant paint, which lasts for 15 years.
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